The kidneys filter more than 53 gallons of blood a day, help regulate blood pressure and direct red blood cell production. Yet they are also prone to disease. One in three Americans are at risk for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) due to diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney failure. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in two adults, age 30 to 64, is expected to develop CKD in their lifetime.
West Virginia leads the way with the highest per capita rate in the country of individuals with advanced CKD. Currently, the American Society of Nephrology has reported there are 2,380 patients receiving dialysis treatment and 157 patients awaiting a kidney transplant due to CKD in West Virginia.
To generate awareness of kidney health, Cabell Huntington Hospital (CHH) in partnership with Fresenius Kidney Care, is hosting a 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 1 at Barboursville Park. The race begins at 8 a.m.
“We wanted to do something to bring awareness to kidney health and to support Cabell Huntington Hospital’s 60 Good Deeds initiative,” said Skip Edwards, Dialysis and Family Medical Center liaison at CHH. “Our team brainstormed several ideas and felt this would not only provide awareness, but would also support our community’s health and wellness.”
Proceeds from the event will benefit the American Kidney Fund which provides direct financial aid to dialysis patients across the nation. In 2015, more than 93,000 people received assistance from the American Kidney Fund for health insurance premiums and other treatment-related expenses.
“Exercise is one of the top ways to prevent kidney disease and other chronic illnesses associated with it,” Edwards said. “What better way to raise awareness than with this event.”
The cost of the 5K Run/Walk is $25 per adult and $15 for children under 10 years of age. Online registration can be made at tristateracer.com. Participants must register prior to Sept. 25 to receive a free T-shirt. Online registration will close at 5 a.m. on Sept. 30. For more information please call 304.399.1290.
